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Launching and operating a successful business requires solid business and market planning. Sound development and preparation can take months, and it can take years before a business turns a profit. Be realistic in your expectations, in terms of both time and money.
The objective of this webpage is to assist prospective and emerging entrepreneurs with helpful business and marketing information essentials to plan and operate a successful business.
Entrepreneurial Spirit
Business success or failure depends on you. Evaluate yourself critically to see if you have what it takes to be a successful entrepreneur.
Business Feasibility
Although you want to enjoy being in business for yourself, you also want your business to be profitable. Determine what minimum return on investment is acceptable to you and to your investors.
Business Planning
Not only do investors and lenders require you to have a business plan, but your success in business also depends on thorough planning and evaluating of the key components of production, marketing, finance and human resources.
Marketing
Marketing is an essential part of business operations. Careful planning and a thorough understanding of the marketplace are keys to developing a strategy that will ensure success. Learn the basics of marketing research and development of a marketing plan/strategy.
Regulations
All three levels of government have legislated acts and regulations pertaining to business. Part of the planning process is examining requirements for permits, licenses, packaging and labeling.
Financing
It takes money to start a business. Determine the most suitable type of financing, as well as sources of various types of financing.
Export
Evaluate your business for export-readiness and plan for what you need to do to export your products and services.
Services
There are a variety of organizations and departments dedicated to providing service and support to small business.
Resources
In addition to organizations and departments who work with entrepreneurs, there are also numerous publications, journals, reference materials and websites that can provide important information for success.
Resources for Agri-food Entrepreneurs |